Window air conditioner and control method

Abstract

A window air conditioner and a control method. The window air conditioner comprises a condensate water recovery and treatment system, a temperature measurement system, and a refrigerant circulation system; the condensate water recovery and treatment system comprises a spray device located in an outdoor unit of the window air conditioner; and the temperature measurement system comprises a first temperature measurement device used for measuring the temperature of the spray device. The control method comprises: determining to enter a water treatment program; determining whether the temperature measured by the first temperature measurement device is lower than a first preset value; and when the temperature measured by the first temperature measurement device is lower than the first preset value, entering a defrosting spray mode, wherein the defrosting spray mode comprises: controlling the refrigerant circulation system to perform a defrosting program on the condensate water recovery and treatment system.

Description

Window air conditioner and control method

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application is based on and claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411220898.3, filed on August 30, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This application relates to the field of air conditioning technology, and in particular to a window air conditioner and a control method. Background Technology

[0004] Air conditioners in related technologies need to be equipped with drain pipes to discharge condensate water outdoors, but in some situations where it is not convenient to install drain pipes, it is difficult to consume condensate water. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application aims to at least solve one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, this application proposes a control method for a window air conditioner that can reliably solve the condensate problem.

[0006] This application also proposes a window air conditioner that can reliably solve the condensate problem.

[0007] A control method for a window air conditioner according to a first aspect of this application includes: a condensate recovery and treatment system, a temperature detection system, and a refrigerant circulation system. The condensate recovery and treatment system includes a spray device located in the outdoor unit of the window air conditioner. The temperature detection system includes a first temperature detection device for detecting the temperature of the spray device. The control method includes: determining to enter a water treatment program; determining whether the temperature detected by the first temperature detection device is lower than a first preset value; and entering a de-icing spray mode when the temperature detected by the first temperature detection device is lower than the first preset value. The de-icing spray mode includes: controlling the refrigerant circulation system to perform a de-icing program on the condensate recovery and treatment system.

[0008] According to the control method for a window air conditioner according to an embodiment of this application, a first temperature detection device is used to detect the temperature of the spray device. Based on the temperature of the spray device, it is determined whether there is a risk of freezing in parts of the condensate recovery and treatment system that are prone to freezing. When there is a risk of freezing, the refrigerant circulation system is controlled to execute a defrosting procedure, thereby ensuring that the condensate recovery and treatment system can work smoothly, effectively spraying and draining water, and reliably solving the condensate problem. Moreover, this reduces the use of sensors and provides high reliability in determining the risk of freezing.

[0009] In some embodiments, the refrigerant circulation system includes an outdoor heat exchanger, an indoor heat exchanger, a compressor, a first throttling device, a reversing valve, and a heating branch. The reversing valve includes a first valve port, a second valve port, a third valve port, and a fourth valve port. The first valve port is connected to the exhaust port of the compressor, and the second valve port is connected to the return port of the compressor. The indoor heat exchanger, the first throttling device, and the outdoor heat exchanger are connected between the third valve port and the fourth valve port along a direction from the third valve port to the fourth valve port. The heating branch is located between the indoor heat exchanger and the first throttling device and cooperates with the spray device for heat exchange. When the refrigerant circulation system executes the de-icing procedure, the reversing valve switches to connect the first valve port and the third valve port, and the second valve port and the fourth valve port, and the heating branch heats the spray device.

[0010] In some embodiments, the condensate recovery system further includes an outdoor unit water recovery container for recovering condensate in the outdoor unit. The outdoor unit water recovery container constitutes one of the water sources for the spray device. The heating branch includes a first heating branch and a second heating branch arranged sequentially along the direction from the indoor heat exchanger to the first throttling device. The first heating branch exchanges heat with the spray device, and the second heating branch exchanges heat with the outdoor unit water recovery container. When the refrigerant circulation system executes the de-icing procedure, the first heating branch heats the spray device, and the second heating branch heats the outdoor unit water recovery container.

[0011] In some embodiments, the refrigerant circulation system includes a flash evaporator, a solenoid valve, and a second throttling device. The flash evaporator and the second throttling device are connected between the first throttling device and the outdoor heat exchanger along a direction from the first throttling device to the outdoor heat exchanger. The flash evaporator is connected to the compressor's gas inlet via a bypass path. The solenoid valve is located in the bypass path and opens when the refrigerant circulation system executes the defrosting procedure.

[0012] In some embodiments, the de-icing spray mode includes: controlling the condensate recovery and treatment system to execute a first spray program once when the refrigerant circulation system executes the de-icing program for a preset duration; after executing the first spray program once, determining whether the de-icing exit condition is met, and repeating the de-icing spray mode if the de-icing exit condition is not met.

[0013] In some embodiments, the temperature detection system includes a second temperature detection device for detecting the outdoor temperature. After determining to enter the water treatment process, the system further includes: determining whether the temperature detected by the second temperature detection device is lower than a second preset value; and entering the de-icing spray mode when the temperature detected by the second temperature detection device is lower than the second preset value.

[0014] In some embodiments, the step of determining whether the temperature detected by the second temperature detection device is lower than the second preset value is performed before the step of determining whether the temperature detected by the first temperature detection device is lower than the first preset value; and when the temperature detected by the second temperature detection device is not lower than the second preset value, the step of determining whether the temperature detected by the first temperature detection device is lower than the first preset value is performed.

[0015] In some embodiments, when the temperature detected by the first temperature detection device is not lower than the first preset value, the spray drainage mode is entered; the spray drainage mode includes: controlling the condensate recovery and treatment system to execute a second spray procedure.

[0016] In some embodiments, the spray drainage mode continues until the drainage exit condition is met, at which point the spray drainage mode is exited.

[0017] In some embodiments, the control method for the window air conditioner includes: when the window air conditioner is turned on, determining whether the time elapsed since the last shutdown has reached a set time; if the time elapsed since the last shutdown has reached the set time, skipping the normal operation mode and first determining whether the water treatment entry conditions are met; if the water treatment entry conditions are met, determining to enter the water treatment program; if the water treatment entry conditions are not met, entering the normal operation mode.

[0018] In some embodiments, if the time elapsed since the last shutdown has not reached the set time, the system enters a normal operation mode; after entering the normal operation mode, it is determined whether the water treatment entry conditions are met.

[0019] A window air conditioner according to a second aspect of this application includes an outdoor unit located on the outdoor side and an indoor unit adapted to be located on the indoor side. The window air conditioner includes: a condensate recovery and treatment system, including a water recovery container and a spray device located on the outdoor unit, the water recovery container constituting the water source for the spray device; a temperature detection system, including a first temperature detection device for detecting the temperature of the spray device and a second temperature detection device for detecting the outdoor temperature; and a refrigerant circulation system, including a compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger located on the outdoor unit, an indoor heat exchanger located on the indoor unit, a first throttling device, a reversing valve, and a heating branch. The reversing valve includes a first valve port, a second valve port, a third valve port, and a fourth valve port. The first valve port is connected to the exhaust port of the compressor, and the second valve port is connected to the return port of the compressor. The indoor heat exchanger, the first throttling device, and the outdoor heat exchanger are connected between the third valve port and the fourth valve port in a direction from the third valve port to the fourth valve port. The heating branch is located between the indoor heat exchanger and the first throttling device and cooperates with the spray device for heat exchange.

[0020] The window air conditioner according to the embodiments of this application can reliably solve the condensate problem.

[0021] In some embodiments, the water recovery container includes an outdoor unit water recovery container and an indoor unit water recovery container. The outdoor unit water recovery container is located below the outdoor heat exchanger, and the indoor unit water recovery container is located below the indoor heat exchanger. Both the outdoor unit water recovery container and the indoor unit water recovery container constitute the water source for the spray device.

[0022] In some embodiments, the heating branch includes a first heating branch and a second heating branch arranged sequentially along the direction from the indoor heat exchanger to the first throttling device, wherein the first heating branch exchanges heat with the spray device and the second heating branch exchanges heat with the outdoor unit water recovery container.

[0023] In some embodiments, the condensate recovery system includes: a first conveying path for conveying water from the indoor unit water recovery container to a spray device, and a second conveying path for conveying water from the outdoor unit water recovery container to the indoor unit water recovery container. The first conveying path is provided with a first water pump, the second conveying path is provided with a second water pump, and the second conveying path is provided with a booster water pump located upstream of the first water pump.

[0024] In some embodiments, the spraying device includes a spray head and a water supply pipe, the water supply pipe including a metal pipe, the spray head being connected to the end of the metal pipe, the metal pipe being in heat exchange cooperation with the heating branch, and the first temperature detection device detecting the temperature of the metal pipe.

[0025] In some embodiments, the compressor further has a gas inlet, and the refrigerant circulation system includes a flash evaporator, a solenoid valve, and a second throttling device. The flash evaporator and the second throttling device are connected between the first throttling device and the outdoor heat exchanger along a direction from the first throttling device to the outdoor heat exchanger. The flash evaporator is connected to the gas inlet through a bypass flow path, and the solenoid valve is located in the bypass flow path.

[0026] Additional aspects and advantages of this application will be set forth in the description which follows, will become apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a window air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0028] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a refrigerant circulation system according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0029] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a window air conditioner according to another embodiment of this application;

[0030] Figure 4 is a control flowchart of a window air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0031] Figure 5 is a control flowchart of a window air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0032] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a spraying device according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0033] Reference numerals: Window air conditioner 100; Outdoor unit 101; Indoor unit 102; Spray device 11; Spray head 111; Water supply pipe 112; Metal pipe 1121; Hose 1122; Thermally conductive metal 113; Outdoor unit water recovery container 12; Indoor unit water recovery container 13; First conveying path 14; Second conveying path 15; Third conveying path 16; First water pump 19; Second water pump 18; Booster pump 17; First temperature detection device 21; Outdoor heat exchanger 31; Indoor heat exchanger 32; Compressor 33; Exhaust port 331; Return air port 332; Air supply port 333; First throttling device 34; Reversing valve 35; First valve port 351; Second valve port 352; Third valve port 353; Fourth valve port 354; Heating branch 36; First heating branch 361; Second heating branch 362; Flash evaporator 37; solenoid valve 38; second throttling device 39. Detailed Implementation

[0034] The embodiments of this application are described in detail below. Examples of the embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and intended to explain this application, and should not be construed as limiting this application.

[0035] The following disclosure provides numerous different embodiments or examples for implementing various structures of this application. To simplify the disclosure, specific examples of components and arrangements are described below. These are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of this application. Furthermore, reference numerals and / or letters may be repeated in different examples. Such repetition is for simplification and clarity and does not in itself indicate a relationship between the various embodiments and / or arrangements discussed. In addition, various specific examples of processes and materials are provided in this application; however, those skilled in the art will recognize the applicability of other processes and / or the use of other materials.

[0036] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, a control method for a window air conditioner 100 according to a first aspect embodiment of the present application will be described.

[0037] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the window air conditioner 100 includes a condensate recovery and treatment system, a temperature detection system, and a refrigerant circulation system. The condensate recovery and treatment system is used to recover the condensate from the window air conditioner 100. The condensate recovery and treatment system includes a spray device 11 located in the outdoor unit 101 of the window air conditioner 100. The condensate recovered by the condensate recovery and treatment system can be consumed in the form of a spray through the spray device 11, thus eliminating the need for a drain pipe to discharge the recovered condensate and avoiding the installation of a drain pipe. The temperature detection system includes a first temperature detection device 21 for detecting the temperature of the spray device 11. The temperature detected by the first temperature detection device 21 is the temperature of the spray device 11.

[0038] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the refrigerant circulation system enables the window air conditioner 100 to have heating and cooling modes. It is understood that the window air conditioner 100 includes an outdoor unit 101 and an indoor unit 102. During installation, the window air conditioner 100 is installed through a window, with the outdoor unit 101 located on the outdoor side and the indoor unit 102 located on the indoor side. The refrigerant circulation system includes an outdoor heat exchanger 31 in the outdoor unit 101, an indoor heat exchanger 32 in the indoor unit 102, a compressor 33, and a reversing valve 35. The reversing valve 35 is used to switch between cooling and heating modes. In cooling mode, the indoor heat exchanger 32 operates at a low temperature, lowering the indoor temperature, while the outdoor heat exchanger 31 operates at a high temperature, dissipating heat to the outside. In heating mode, the indoor heat exchanger 32 operates at a high temperature, raising the indoor temperature, while the outdoor heat exchanger 31 operates at a low temperature, absorbing heat from the outside.

[0039] For example, the outdoor unit 101 also includes an outdoor fan to improve the heat exchange efficiency of the outdoor heat exchanger 31, and the indoor unit 102 also includes an indoor fan to improve the heat exchange efficiency of the indoor heat exchanger 32.

[0040] For example, referring to FIG1, the condensate recovery system may include a water recovery container, which may include an outdoor unit water recovery container 12 disposed on the outdoor unit 101 and an indoor unit water recovery container 13 disposed on the indoor unit 102. The outdoor unit water recovery container 12 may be disposed below the outdoor heat exchanger 31 for recovering the condensate generated by the outdoor unit 101, and the indoor unit water recovery container 13 may be disposed below the indoor heat exchanger 32 for recovering the condensate generated by the indoor unit 102.

[0041] For example, referring to Figure 1, in heating mode, because the outdoor heat exchanger 31 has a lower temperature, condensation easily forms on the outdoor heat exchanger 31, and the water formed on the outdoor heat exchanger 31 flows downward into the outdoor unit water recovery container 12. In cooling mode, because the indoor heat exchanger 32 has a lower temperature, condensation easily forms on the indoor heat exchanger 32, and the water formed on the indoor heat exchanger 32 flows downward into the indoor unit water recovery container 13.

[0042] For example, the condensate recovery and treatment system may include a water delivery path. In heating mode, the water delivery path delivers the condensate collected in the outdoor unit's water recovery container 12 to the spray device 11 for spraying and consumption. In cooling mode, the water delivery path delivers the condensate collected in the indoor unit's water recovery container 13 to the spray device 11 for spraying and consumption. The specific configuration of the water delivery path is not limited, and examples are described below.

[0043] For example, referring to FIG1, the water delivery path may include a first delivery path 14 and a second delivery path 15. The first delivery path 14 extends from the indoor unit 102 to the outdoor unit 101 to deliver the condensate collected in the indoor unit water recovery container 13 to the spray device 11. The second delivery path 15 extends from the outdoor unit 101 to the indoor unit 102 to deliver the condensate collected in the outdoor unit water recovery container 12 to the indoor unit water recovery container 13. Thus, in the cooling mode, the condensate collected in the indoor unit water recovery container 13 is directly delivered to the spray device 11 by the first delivery path 14. In the heating mode, the condensate collected in the outdoor unit water recovery container 12 is delivered to the indoor unit water recovery container 13 by the second delivery path 15, and the condensate obtained in the indoor unit water recovery container 13 (i.e., the condensate delivered by the second delivery path 15) is delivered to the spray device 11 by the first delivery path 14.

[0044] For example, referring to FIG3, the water delivery path may include a first delivery path 14 and a third delivery path 16. The first delivery path 14 extends from the indoor unit 102 to the outdoor unit 101 to deliver the condensate collected in the indoor unit water recovery container 13 to the spray device 11. The third delivery path 16 is located in the outdoor unit 101 to deliver the condensate collected in the outdoor unit water recovery container 12 to the spray device 11. Thus, in the cooling mode, the condensate collected in the indoor unit water recovery container 13 is directly delivered to the spray device 11 by the first delivery path 14, while in the heating mode, the condensate collected in the outdoor unit water recovery container 12 is directly delivered to the spray device 11 by the third delivery path 16.

[0045] As shown in Figure 4, the control method includes the following steps: S1, determining whether to enter the water treatment program; S2, determining whether the temperature detected by the first temperature detection device 21 is lower than a first preset value; S3, when the temperature detected by the first temperature detection device 21 is lower than the first preset value, entering the de-icing spray mode. The de-icing spray mode includes controlling the refrigerant circulation system to execute the de-icing program on the condensate recovery and treatment system. The first preset value is not specifically limited; for example, it can be any value between 0℃ and 10℃, or any value between 0℃ and 5℃.

[0046] In the embodiments of this application, the refrigerant circulation system performing a defrosting procedure on the condensate recovery and treatment system refers to the refrigerant circulation system heating the easily frozen parts of the condensate recovery and treatment system (e.g., the spray device 11 and / or the outdoor unit water recovery container 12). Specifically, the refrigerant circulation system has a heating branch that can heat the easily frozen parts of the condensate recovery and treatment system to defrost these parts in extremely cold environments, ensuring the smooth operation of the condensate recovery and treatment system.

[0047] For example, when the condensate recovered in the window air conditioner 100 has a drainage requirement (e.g., when the water in the outdoor unit water recovery container 12 or the indoor unit water recovery container 13 is full), a water treatment program can be entered. After entering the water treatment program, it can be analyzed whether there is a risk of freezing in the parts of the condensate recovery system that are prone to freezing by judging whether the temperature of the spray device 11 (i.e., the temperature detected by the first temperature detection device 21) is lower than the first preset value. If the temperature of the spray device 11 is lower than the first preset value, it is considered that there is a risk of freezing in the parts of the condensate recovery system that are prone to freezing. At this time, the refrigerant circulation system can be controlled to execute a defrosting program to defrost the parts of the condensate recovery system that are prone to freezing, so that the condensate recovery system can work normally and meet the spray drainage requirements.

[0048] Therefore, in the embodiments of this application, by setting a first temperature detection device 21 to detect the temperature of the spray device 11, and judging whether there is a risk of freezing in the parts of the condensate recovery and treatment system that are prone to freezing based on the temperature of the spray device 11, the refrigerant circulation system is controlled to execute the de-icing procedure when there is a risk of freezing, thereby ensuring that the condensate recovery and treatment system can work smoothly and effectively spray water. In this way, the use of sensors can be reduced and the reliability of judging the freezing risk is high.

[0049] For example, the outdoor unit water recovery container 12 has a high and low water level switch. When the low water level alarm is triggered, the outdoor unit water recovery container 12 is considered to be full. When the high water level alarm is triggered, it is considered that there is a risk of overflow and protective measures (such as shutting off the compressor 33) need to be implemented. Similarly, the indoor unit water recovery container 13 has a high and low water level switch. When the low water level alarm is triggered, the indoor unit water recovery container 13 is considered to be full. When the high water level alarm is triggered, it is considered that there is a risk of overflow and protective measures (such as shutting off the compressor 33) need to be implemented.

[0050] For example, referring to Figure 1, when the condensate recovery system includes a first conveying path 14 and a second conveying path 15, in cooling mode, due to the low temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 32, condensate easily forms on the indoor heat exchanger 32. The water formed on the indoor heat exchanger 32 flows downward into the indoor unit water recovery container 13. After a period of time, the indoor unit water recovery container 13 will become full (i.e., a low water level alarm will be triggered in the indoor unit water recovery container 13). In heating mode, due to the low temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger 31, condensate easily forms on the outdoor heat exchanger 31. The water formed on the outdoor heat exchanger 31 flows downward into the outdoor unit water recovery container 12. The second conveying path 15 conveys the condensate collected in the outdoor unit water recovery container 12 to the indoor unit water recovery container 13. After a period of time, the indoor unit water recovery container 13 will become full (i.e., a low water level alarm will be triggered in the indoor unit water recovery container 13). In either case, when the water in the indoor unit water recovery container 13 is full, it can be assumed that the condensate recovered in the window air conditioner 100 has a drainage requirement and can enter the water treatment process.

[0051] In some embodiments of this application, referring to FIG2, the refrigerant circulation system includes an outdoor heat exchanger 31, an indoor heat exchanger 32, a compressor 33, a first throttling device 34, a reversing valve 35, and a heating branch 36. The reversing valve 35 includes a first valve port 351, a second valve port 352, a third valve port 353, and a fourth valve port 354. The first valve port 351 is connected to the exhaust port 331 of the compressor 33, and the second valve port 352 is connected to the return port 332 of the compressor 33. The indoor heat exchanger 32, the first throttling device 34, and the outdoor heat exchanger 31 are connected between the third valve port 353 and the fourth valve port 354 along the direction from the third valve port 353 to the fourth valve port 354. The heating branch 36 is located between the indoor heat exchanger 32 and the first throttling device 34 and cooperates with the spray device 11 for heat exchange.

[0052] When the refrigerant circulation system executes the defrosting procedure, the reversing valve 35 switches to connect the first valve port 351 and the third valve port 353, and the second valve port 352 and the fourth valve port 354, so that the heating branch 36 heats the spray device 11. That is, when the refrigerant circulation system executes the defrosting procedure, the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor 33 first flows to the indoor heat exchanger 32, and then flows back to the compressor 33 from the outdoor heat exchanger 31. The indoor heat exchanger 32 is at a higher temperature than the outdoor heat exchanger 31. At this time, not only can the heating branch 36 heat the spray device 11, but the indoor heat exchanger 32 can also provide some degree of indoor heating, thus meeting the user's heating needs in low-temperature environments. It is understandable that condensate recovery systems typically freeze in winter, and users have heating needs during winter. When the refrigerant circulation system executes the defrosting procedure, it can simultaneously provide heating to a certain extent, which is beneficial for users.

[0053] In some embodiments of this application, referring to Figures 1 and 3, when the condensate recovery system includes an outdoor unit water recovery container 12 for recovering condensate in the outdoor unit 101, the outdoor unit water recovery container 12 can constitute one of the water sources for the spray device 11. That is, the water source for the spray device 11 can come entirely from the outdoor unit water recovery container 12, or partly from the outdoor unit water recovery container 12. Referring to Figure 2, the heating branch 36 includes a first heating branch 361 and a second heating branch 362 arranged sequentially along the direction from the indoor heat exchanger 32 to the first throttling device 34. The first heating branch 361 exchanges heat with the spray device 11, and the second heating branch 362 exchanges heat with the outdoor unit water recovery container 12. When the refrigerant circulation system performs the de-icing process, the first heating branch 361 heats the spray device 11, and the second heating branch 362 heats the outdoor unit water recovery container 12.

[0054] In this way, when the refrigerant circulation system executes the defrosting procedure, it can defrost not only the spray device 11 but also the outdoor unit water recovery container 12, thereby enabling the condensate recovery and treatment system to operate more smoothly and meet the spray drainage requirements. Furthermore, the heating of both the spray device 11 and the outdoor unit water recovery container 12 comes from the refrigerant circulation system, eliminating the need for a separate electric heating device to heat the outdoor unit water recovery container 12, thus reducing costs and simplifying the overall structure. Moreover, by placing the first heating branch 361 upstream of the second heating branch 362, the temperature of the first heating branch 361 can be higher than the temperature of the second heating branch 362, thus prioritizing the defrosting needs of the spray device 11, which urgently requires defrosting, to expedite spray drainage.

[0055] Considering that during winter heating, using part of the heat from the refrigerant circulation system for de-icing may result in heat loss, in some embodiments of this application, referring to FIG2, the refrigerant circulation system is configured to further include a flash evaporator 37, a solenoid valve 38, and a second throttling device 39. The flash evaporator 37 and the second throttling device 39 are connected between the first throttling device 34 and the outdoor heat exchanger 31 along the direction from the first throttling device 34 to the outdoor heat exchanger 31. The flash evaporator 37 is connected to the air supply port 333 of the compressor 33 through a bypass flow path. The solenoid valve 38 is located in the bypass flow path. When the refrigerant circulation system executes the de-icing procedure, the solenoid valve 38 opens, thereby controlling the jet injection and achieving high cooling capacity. Thus, while de-icing, the user's heating experience is not affected.

[0056] For example, referring to Figure 2, when the refrigerant circulation system executes the defrosting procedure, the reversing valve 35 switches to connect the first valve port 351 with the third valve port 353, and the second valve port 352 with the fourth valve port 354. High-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant flows from the compressor 33 to the reversing valve 35, and then from the third valve port 353 to the indoor heat exchanger 32. High-pressure, room-temperature refrigerant flows out of the indoor heat exchanger 32 and heats the spray device 11 via the first heating branch 361, causing the spray device 11 to defrost. Then, it passes through the second heating branch 362 to heat the outdoor unit water recovery container 12, causing the outdoor unit water recovery container 12 to defrost. The refrigerant then flows to the first throttling device 34 (e.g., an electronic expansion valve), while the solenoid valve 38 remains open. The refrigerant flowing out of the first throttling device 34 enters the flash evaporator 37, where a portion of the refrigerant evaporates. It then returns to the compressor 33 through the bypass path where the solenoid valve 38 is located, thereby increasing the amount of refrigerant circulating and increasing the temperature of the refrigerant returning to the compressor 33. This increases the heating capacity and does not affect the user's heating experience during defrosting. The remaining refrigerant from the flash evaporator 37 passes through the second throttling device 39 (e.g., a capillary tube) and continues to evaporate in the outdoor heat exchanger 31 before returning to the compressor 33.

[0057] Therefore, in ultra-low temperature heating, the refrigerant circulation system can both defrost the condensate recovery system to ensure smooth spray drainage and utilize the anodic aeration of the bypass path to discharge more heat, compensating for the heat loss during defrosting. This defrosting process does not affect the user's heating experience. In short, during ultra-low temperature heating, the system ensures that the condensate recovery system will not fail due to ice blockage, meets the spray drainage requirements, and that the heat loss during defrosting does not affect the user's heating experience.

[0058] Among them, the "vapor injection enthalpy enhancement" technology is well known to those skilled in the art. Vapor injection enthalpy-enhancing compressors employ a two-stage throttling intermediate injection technology, using a flash evaporator for gas-liquid separation to achieve enthalpy enhancement. It increases the compressor's discharge capacity by simultaneously injecting vapor for cooling during low- and medium-pressure compression, followed by normal compression at high pressure, thereby enhancing heating capacity in low-temperature environments. The core principle of vapor injection enthalpy enhancement technology is to introduce steam into the compressor, transforming the original single-stage compression process into a quasi-two-stage compression process. This process consists of three steps: First, the compressor draws in steam in state 1, which is then compressed to state a; then, the original gas in state a mixes with gas entering the compressor's working chamber through the injection port, and compression continues while injecting and mixing until the working chamber separates from the injection port. At this point, the gas state in the working chamber changes from state a before injection to state b after injection; finally, after the working chamber separates from the injection port, the gas within it is compressed from state b to state 2. This technology improves the system's energy efficiency and operational reliability by increasing cooling capacity, enhancing low-temperature operation stability, reducing exhaust temperature, and expanding the heat pump's operating range.

[0059] When the refrigerant circulation system is in cooling mode, the reversing valve 35 switches to connect the first valve port 351 with the fourth valve port 354, and the second valve port 352 with the third valve port 353. At this time, the solenoid valve 38 can be closed to cut off the bypass flow path.

[0060] In some embodiments of this application, the spraying device 11 includes a spray head 111 and a water supply pipe 112. The water supply pipe 112 includes a metal pipe 1121. The spray head 111 is connected to the end of the metal pipe 1121. The metal pipe 1121 is in heat exchange cooperation with the heating branch 36. For example, the metal pipe 1121 and the first heating branch 361 can be in heat-conducting cooperation through a heat-conducting metal 113. Alternatively, the metal pipe 1121 and the first heating branch 361 can be wrapped together with a heat-insulating material so that the temperature of the first heating branch 361 can be fully used for the de-icing of the metal pipe 1121.

[0061] In some embodiments of this application, the second heating branch 362 is a subcooling pipe, and the temperature of the subcooling pipe can melt the ice in the outdoor unit water recovery container 12.

[0062] In some embodiments of this application, the defrosting spray mode specifically includes: when the refrigerant circulation system executes the defrosting program for a preset duration, controlling the condensate recovery and treatment system to execute a first spray program once; after executing the first spray program once, determining whether the defrosting exit condition is met; if the defrosting exit condition is not met, repeating the defrosting spray mode, that is, controlling the refrigerant circulation to continue or re-execute the defrosting program, and the defrosting program restarts its timing; when the defrosting program executes the preset duration again, executing the first spray program again, and then determining whether the defrosting exit condition is met again; if the defrosting exit condition is not met, repeating the defrosting spray mode again, and so on, until the defrosting exit condition is met, ending the defrosting spray mode. Thus, defrosting and spray drainage can be completed in a timely manner, reducing energy consumption.

[0063] For example, when the water in the outdoor unit water recovery container 12 or the indoor unit water recovery container 13 is no longer full, the de-icing exit condition is considered to be met. For instance, when the condensate recovery and treatment system includes a first conveying flow path 14 and a second conveying flow path 15, the de-icing exit condition can be considered to be met when the water in the indoor unit water recovery container 13 is no longer full (i.e., when the low water level alarm is no longer triggered).

[0064] For example, the condensate recovery and treatment system may include multiple water pumps, such as pumps installed in the water delivery path (e.g., booster pump 17 and first pump 19 installed in the first delivery path 14, and second pump 18 installed in the second delivery path 15). By turning on the required water pumps in sequence, and the opening time of each water pump meets the set time or the closing condition, a first spraying procedure can be completed.

[0065] It is worth noting that the preset duration is not limited, and can be any value between 5 and 15 minutes, such as 10 minutes, etc. In addition, when the condensate recovery and treatment system executes the first spray program, the refrigerant circulation system can execute the defrosting program (i.e., it can use the heating branch 36 to heat the condensate recovery and treatment system), or it can choose not to execute the defrosting program (i.e., it can not use the heating branch 36 to heat the condensate recovery and treatment system).

[0066] In some embodiments of this application, the temperature detection system includes a second temperature detection device for detecting the outdoor temperature. After determining to enter the water treatment process, the system further includes: determining whether the temperature detected by the second temperature detection device is lower than a second preset value; and entering the aforementioned de-icing spray mode when the temperature detected by the second temperature detection device is lower than the second preset value. The second preset value is not specifically limited; for example, it can be any value between 0℃ and 10℃, or any value between 0℃ and 5℃. The first preset value and the second preset value can be the same or different.

[0067] In this way, when the condensate recovered in the window air conditioner 100 has a drainage requirement (for example, when the water in the outdoor unit water recovery container 12 or the indoor unit water recovery container 13 is full), the water treatment program can be entered. After entering the water treatment program, it can be analyzed whether there is a risk of freezing in the parts of the condensate recovery system that are prone to freezing by judging whether the outdoor ambient temperature (i.e., the temperature detected by the second temperature detection device) is lower than the second preset value. If the outdoor ambient temperature is lower than the second preset value, it is considered that there is a risk of freezing in the parts of the condensate recovery system that are prone to freezing. At this time, the refrigerant circulation system can be controlled to execute the de-icing program to de-ice the parts of the condensate recovery system that are prone to freezing, so that the condensate recovery system can work normally and meet the spray drainage requirements.

[0068] Therefore, in the embodiments of this application, by setting a second temperature detection device to detect the outdoor ambient temperature, it is determined whether there is a risk of freezing in the parts of the condensate recovery and treatment system that are prone to freezing. When there is a risk of freezing, the refrigerant circulation system is controlled to execute the de-icing procedure, thereby ensuring that the condensate recovery and treatment system can work smoothly and effectively spray drainage. In this way, freezing detection can be carried out from different aspects, further improving the reliability of judging the risk of freezing.

[0069] It is worth noting that the order of "determining whether the temperature detected by the first temperature detection device 21 is lower than the first preset value" and "determining whether the temperature detected by the second temperature detection device is lower than the second preset value" is not limited; they can be performed one after the other or simultaneously.

[0070] In some embodiments of this application, it is possible to first "determine whether the temperature detected by the second temperature detection device is lower than the second preset value", and then "determine whether the temperature detected by the first temperature detection device 21 is lower than the first preset value". More specifically, when the temperature detected by the second temperature detection device is not lower than the second preset value, it is then determined whether the temperature detected by the first temperature detection device 21 is lower than the first preset value.

[0071] Thus, after determining whether to enter the water treatment process, the system first checks whether the temperature detected by the second temperature detection device is lower than the second preset value. If the temperature detected by the second temperature detection device is lower than the second preset value, the system controls the refrigerant circulation system to perform a defrosting procedure on the condensate recovery and treatment system. If the temperature detected by the second temperature detection device is not lower than the second preset value, the system then checks whether the temperature detected by the first temperature detection device 21 is lower than the first preset value. If the temperature detected by the first temperature detection device 21 is lower than the first preset value, the system controls the refrigerant circulation system to perform a defrosting procedure on the condensate recovery and treatment system.

[0072] Therefore, by prioritizing the assessment of whether the outdoor temperature will cause a freezing risk, if the outdoor temperature is low and a freezing risk is identified, the de-icing process can be initiated directly without further analysis of the temperature of the spray device 11. This avoids the misjudgment that there is no freezing risk when other areas are already frozen but the spray device 11 is not yet frozen, and allows for rapid de-icing. However, if the assessment indicates that the outdoor temperature may not cause a freezing risk, the temperature of the spray device 11 should be further checked to further analyze whether a freezing risk exists. If the outdoor temperature does not yet meet the minimum requirement, but the temperature of the spray device 11 is already low, a freezing risk is still considered to exist, and the de-icing process still needs to be initiated. This ensures that the spray drainage can proceed smoothly and reliably.

[0073] In some embodiments of this application, when the temperature detected by the first temperature detection device 21 is not lower than a first preset value, a spray drainage mode is entered; the spray drainage mode includes controlling the condensate recovery and treatment system to execute a second spray procedure. That is, after determining that the water treatment procedure has been entered, if it is determined that the temperature of the spray device 11 is not lower than the first preset value, there is no need to enter the de-icing procedure, and the second spray procedure can be performed directly. This can save energy and allow for rapid spray drainage.

[0074] For example, the condensate recovery and treatment system may include multiple water pumps, such as pumps installed in the water delivery path (e.g., booster pump 17 and first pump 19 installed in the first delivery path 14, and second pump 18 installed in the second delivery path 15). By sequentially activating the required water pumps, with each pump's activation duration meeting a set duration or a shutdown condition, a second spraying procedure can be completed. The aforementioned first and second spraying procedures may be consistent or inconsistent. For example, in the second spraying procedure, the water pumps may be activated until a shutdown condition is met, while in the first spraying procedure, the water pumps may be activated until a set duration is met.

[0075] In some embodiments of this application, the spray drainage mode continues until the drainage exit condition is met, at which point the spray drainage mode is exited. That is, the condensate recovery and treatment system is controlled to execute a second spray procedure until the drainage exit condition is met, at which point the second spray procedure is exited. In other words, during the execution of the second spray procedure by the condensate recovery and treatment system, it continuously checks whether the drainage exit condition is met. If the drainage exit condition is not met, the second spray procedure continues to execute; if the drainage exit condition is met, the second spray procedure is exited. Therefore, the control is relatively simple, eliminating the need to repeatedly turn the water pump on and off until the condition is met, thus simplifying the control process.

[0076] For example, when the water in the outdoor unit water recovery container 12 or the indoor unit water recovery container 13 is no longer full, it is considered that the drainage exit condition has been met. For instance, when the condensate recovery and treatment system includes a first conveying flow path 14 and a second conveying flow path 15, the drainage exit condition can be considered met when the water in the indoor unit water recovery container 13 is no longer full (i.e., when the low water level alarm is no longer triggered).

[0077] In some embodiments of this application, it is determined whether the water treatment entry conditions are met; if the water treatment entry conditions are met, it is determined to enter the water treatment process. For example, when the water in the outdoor unit water recovery container 12 or the indoor unit water recovery container 13 is full, it is considered that the water treatment entry conditions are met. For instance, when the condensate recovery system includes a first conveying flow path 14 and a second conveying flow path 15, the water treatment entry conditions can be considered met when the water in the indoor unit water recovery container 13 is full (i.e., when a low water level alarm occurs).

[0078] In some embodiments of this application, when the window air conditioner 100 is turned on, it is determined whether the time elapsed since the last shutdown has reached a set time. If the time elapsed since the last shutdown has reached the set time, the normal operation mode is skipped, and it is first determined whether the water treatment entry conditions are met. If the water treatment entry conditions are met, the water treatment program is initiated. If the water treatment entry conditions are not met, the normal operation mode is entered. It is worth noting that the above determination of whether the time elapsed since the last shutdown has reached the set time can be performed under both heating and cooling modes. The heating mode may be more necessary. The specific value of the set time is not limited; for example, it can be any value between 1 and 3 hours, such as 2 hours.

[0079] In short, if the last shutdown time reached the preset time, it is considered that the shutdown time was too long and there may be a need for water treatment. In this case, do not enter the normal operation mode (e.g., the compressor does not start, and cooling or heating is not performed according to the user-set temperature). Instead, it is necessary to first determine whether the water treatment entry conditions are met. If the water treatment entry conditions are met, the water treatment program needs to be entered.

[0080] If the compressor has been off for a long time when it is turned on, there is a risk of freezing. If it enters normal operation mode first, the compressor will need to heat according to the temperature set by the user. However, if it is found that de-icing spray is needed after turning on, the compressor's working status needs to be adjusted immediately to enter the de-icing program. This causes the compressor to repeatedly adjust or start and stop, which will reduce the lifespan of the compressor.

[0081] Therefore, in the embodiments of this application, by prioritizing the determination of whether the time elapsed since the last shutdown has reached a set time when the compressor is turned on, it is determined whether to directly enter the normal operation mode or to determine whether to enter the water treatment program, thereby avoiding the risk of repeated adjustment or start-stop of the compressor and effectively protecting the compressor.

[0082] In some embodiments of this application, when it is determined that the time elapsed since the last shutdown has not reached a set time, the system can directly enter normal operation mode. After entering normal operation mode, it can continuously determine whether the water treatment entry conditions are met. Once the water treatment entry conditions are met, the system determines to enter the water treatment process. Thus, during normal operation of the window air conditioner 100, it can constantly monitor whether drainage is needed to prevent water overflow.

[0083] The following describes a control method for a window air conditioner 100 according to a specific embodiment of this application.

[0084] When the window air conditioner 100 is turned on, it checks whether the time elapsed since the last shutdown has reached a set time (e.g., 2 hours). If the time elapsed since the last shutdown has reached the set time (e.g., 2 hours), it skips the normal operation mode and checks whether the water treatment entry conditions are met (e.g., whether the high / low water level switch of the indoor unit's water recovery container 13 is triggering a low water level alarm). If the time elapsed since the last shutdown has not reached the set time, it can directly enter the normal operation mode. After entering the normal operation mode, it continuously checks whether the water treatment entry conditions are met. If the water treatment entry conditions are met (e.g., a low water level alarm), it enters the water treatment program; if the water treatment entry conditions are not met (e.g., no low water level alarm), it enters the normal operation mode.

[0085] After entering the water treatment process, it first determines whether the outdoor temperature is lower than the second preset value (e.g., 0°C). If the outdoor temperature is lower than the second preset value, it enters the de-icing spray mode. If the outdoor temperature is not lower than the second preset value, it continues to determine whether the temperature of the spray device 11 is lower than the first preset value (e.g., 0°C). If the temperature of the spray device 11 is lower than the first preset value (e.g., 0°C), it also needs to enter the de-icing spray mode.

[0086] After entering the defrosting spray mode, the refrigerant circulation system is controlled to execute a defrosting program on the condensate recovery system. When the refrigerant circulation system has executed the defrosting program for a preset duration (e.g., heating the condensate recovery system for 10 minutes using the refrigerant circulation system), the condensate recovery system is controlled to execute a first spray program (e.g., sequentially activating the required water pumps, with each pump's activation time matching the set duration). When the first spray program ends, it is determined whether the defrosting exit conditions are met (e.g., whether the high / low water level switch of the indoor unit's water recovery container 13 is triggering a low water level alarm). If the defrosting exit conditions are not met, the refrigerant circulation system is controlled to re-execute the defrosting program. When the defrosting exit conditions are met, the defrosting spray mode is exited, and normal operation mode is entered.

[0087] After entering the water treatment process, if it is determined that the outdoor temperature is not lower than the second preset value, and it is further determined that the temperature of the spray device 11 is not lower than the first preset value, then the spray drainage mode is entered. After entering the spray drainage mode, the condensate recovery and treatment system is controlled to execute the second spray program (for example, turning on the required water pumps in sequence, with the turn-on time of each water pump meeting the turn-off conditions) until the drainage exit conditions are met (for example, whether the high and low water level switch of the indoor unit water recovery container 13 is alarming for low water level), then the spray drainage mode is exited and the normal operation mode is entered; otherwise, the spray drainage mode is continuously executed.

[0088] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, a window air conditioner 100 according to a second aspect embodiment of the present application will be described.

[0089] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the window air conditioner 100 includes an outdoor unit 101 located on the outdoor side and an indoor unit 102 suitable for installation on the indoor side. The window air conditioner 100 also includes a condensate recovery and treatment system, a temperature detection system, and a refrigerant circulation system. The condensate recovery and treatment system includes a water recovery container and a spray device 11 located on the outdoor unit 101. The water recovery container serves as the water source for the spray device 11. The composition and location of the water recovery container are not limited, as long as it can collect the condensate generated by the window air conditioner 100. The temperature detection system includes a first temperature detection device 21 for detecting the temperature of the spray device 11 and a second temperature detection device for detecting the outdoor temperature. The refrigerant circulation system includes a compressor 33, an outdoor heat exchanger 31 located in the outdoor unit 101, an indoor heat exchanger 32 located in the indoor unit 102, a first throttling device 34, a reversing valve 35, and a heating branch 36. The reversing valve 35 includes a first valve port 351, a second valve port 352, a third valve port 353, and a fourth valve port 354. The first valve port 351 is connected to the exhaust port 331 of the compressor 33, and the second valve port 352 is connected to the return port 332 of the compressor 33. The indoor heat exchanger 32, the first throttling device 34, and the outdoor heat exchanger 31 are connected between the third valve port 353 and the fourth valve port 354 in a direction from the third valve port 353 to the fourth valve port 354. The heating branch 36 is located between the indoor heat exchanger 32 and the first throttling device 34 and cooperates with the spray device 11 for heat exchange.

[0090] Therefore, the refrigerant circulation system can execute a defrosting procedure. During this procedure, the reversing valve 35 switches to connect the first valve port 351 with the third valve port 353, and the second valve port 352 with the fourth valve port 354. At this time, the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor 33 first flows to the indoor heat exchanger 32, and then flows back to the compressor 33 from the outdoor heat exchanger 31. The indoor heat exchanger 32 has a higher temperature than the outdoor heat exchanger 31. Therefore, not only can the heating branch 36 heat the spray device 11, but the indoor heat exchanger 32 can also provide some degree of indoor heating, thus meeting the user's heating needs in low-temperature environments. It is understandable that condensate recovery systems typically freeze in winter, when users have heating needs. Executing the defrosting procedure in the refrigerant circulation system can simultaneously provide heating to a certain extent, which is beneficial for users.

[0091] Therefore, the window air conditioner 100 according to this application embodiment can perform a defrosting process in the refrigerant circulation system when the outdoor temperature is low. The heating branch 36 of the refrigerant circulation system is used to defrost the spray device 11, thereby enabling the condensate recovery and treatment system to operate smoothly. Furthermore, while defrosting, the indoor heat exchanger 32 can also heat the room, which helps meet the user's heating needs. Moreover, this defrosting method eliminates the need for an electric heating device, reducing costs and simplifying the structure.

[0092] In the embodiments of this application, the window air conditioner 100 according to the second aspect of this application can execute the control method of the window air conditioner 100 described in the first aspect of the application, which will not be repeated here.

[0093] In some embodiments of this application, referring to FIG1, the water recovery container includes an outdoor unit water recovery container 12 and an indoor unit water recovery container 13. The outdoor unit water recovery container 12 is located below the outdoor heat exchanger 31, and the indoor unit water recovery container 13 is located below the indoor heat exchanger 32. Both the outdoor unit water recovery container 12 and the indoor unit water recovery container 13 constitute the water source for the spray device 11. In heating mode, due to the low temperature of the outdoor heat exchanger 31, condensate easily forms on the outdoor heat exchanger 31, and the water formed on the outdoor heat exchanger 31 flows downward into the outdoor unit water recovery container 12. In cooling mode, due to the low temperature of the indoor heat exchanger 32, condensate easily forms on the indoor heat exchanger 32, and the water formed on the indoor heat exchanger 32 flows downward into the indoor unit water recovery container 13. Thus, the condensate generated by the window air conditioner 100 can be recovered relatively reliably and fully.

[0094] In some embodiments of this application, referring to FIG2, the condensate recovery system includes: a first conveying flow path 14 for conveying water in the indoor unit water recovery container 13 to the spray device 11, and a second conveying flow path 15 for conveying water in the outdoor unit water recovery container 12 to the indoor unit water recovery container 13. A first water pump 19 is provided on the first conveying flow path 14, and a second water pump 18 is provided on the second conveying flow path 15.

[0095] Thus, in cooling mode, the first water pump 19 is turned on, and the condensate collected in the indoor unit water recovery container 13 is directly transported to the spray device 11 through the first conveying flow path 14. In heating mode, both the first water pump 19 and the second water pump 18 are turned on, and the condensate collected in the outdoor unit water recovery container 12 is transported to the indoor unit water recovery container 13 through the second conveying flow path 15. The condensate obtained in the indoor unit water recovery container 13 (i.e., the condensate transported by the second conveying flow path 15) is then transported to the spray device 11 through the first conveying flow path 14.

[0096] Not limited to this, for example referring to Figure 3, the condensate recovery and treatment system may also include: a first conveying flow path 14 and a third conveying flow path 16. The first conveying flow path 14 extends from the indoor unit 102 to the outdoor unit 101 to convey the condensate collected in the indoor unit water recovery container 13 to the spray device 11. The third conveying flow path 16 is located in the outdoor unit 101 to convey the condensate collected in the outdoor unit water recovery container 12 to the spray device 11. Thus, in the cooling mode, the condensate collected in the indoor unit water recovery container 13 is directly conveyed to the spray device 11 by the first conveying flow path 14, while in the heating mode, the condensate collected in the outdoor unit water recovery container 12 is directly conveyed to the spray device 11 by the third conveying flow path 16.

[0097] In some embodiments of this application, a booster pump 17 located upstream of the first water pump 19 is provided on the second conveying path 15. In cooling mode, when the water collected in the indoor unit water recovery container 13 reaches a set water level, the booster pump 17 and the first water pump 19 can be turned on to transport the water collected in the indoor unit water recovery container 13 to the spray device 11 to atomize and spray the water, thereby solving the problem of water accumulation in the indoor unit water recovery container 13. In heating mode, on the one hand, when the water collected in the outdoor unit water recovery container 12 reaches a set water level, the second water pump 18 can be turned on to transport the water collected in the outdoor unit water recovery container 12 to the indoor unit water recovery container 13. On the other hand, when the water collected in the indoor unit water recovery container 13 reaches a set water level, the booster pump 17 and the first water pump 19 can be turned on to transport the water collected in the indoor unit water recovery container 13 to the spray device 11 to atomize and spray the water, thereby solving the problem of water accumulation in the outdoor unit water recovery container 12. This description can be used as either the first spray procedure or the second spray procedure.

[0098] Therefore, the window air conditioner 100 according to the embodiment of this application, by setting the above-mentioned water treatment system, can solve the problem of water accumulation in the corresponding water recovery container in both heating and cooling modes. Furthermore, by setting a booster pump 17 in series upstream of the first water pump 19, the booster pump 17 can play an auxiliary pressurization role, preventing the booster pump 17 from failing to draw water due to air leakage or other reasons. Moreover, if one of the first water pump 19 and the booster pump 17 fails, the other can still work normally, allowing water treatment to proceed smoothly and reliably solve the problem of water accumulation in the water recovery container. In addition, the water treatment system of the embodiment of this application is simple, requires fewer water pumps, occupies less space, has lower cost, requires fewer interfaces on the control board, has simpler control logic, and can reduce the failure rate of water pumps and control circuits, thereby further improving the reliability of solving the problem of water accumulation in the water recovery container.

[0099] In some embodiments of this application, the heating branch 36 includes a first heating branch 361 and a second heating branch 362 arranged sequentially along the direction from the indoor heat exchanger 32 to the first throttling device 34. The first heating branch 361 exchanges heat with the spray device 11, and the second heating branch 362 exchanges heat with the outdoor unit water recovery container 12. Thus, when the refrigerant circulation system executes the defrosting procedure, not only can the spray device 11 be defrosted, but the outdoor unit water recovery container 12 can also be defrosted, allowing the condensate recovery system to operate more smoothly and meet the spray drainage requirements. Furthermore, the heating of both the spray device 11 and the outdoor unit water recovery container 12 comes from the refrigerant circulation system, eliminating the need for a separate electric heating device to heat the outdoor unit water recovery container 12, thereby reducing costs and simplifying the overall structure. Moreover, by placing the first heating branch 361 upstream of the second heating branch 362, the temperature of the first heating branch 361 can be higher than the temperature of the second heating branch 362, thus prioritizing the defrosting needs of the spray device 11, which urgently requires defrosting, to expedite spray drainage.

[0100] In some embodiments of this application, referring to Figures 1 and 2, the compressor 33 further includes a gas inlet 333. The refrigerant circulation system includes a flash evaporator 37, a solenoid valve 38, and a second throttling device 39. The flash evaporator 37 and the second throttling device 39 are connected between the first throttling device 34 and the outdoor heat exchanger 31 along the direction from the first throttling device 34 to the outdoor heat exchanger 31. The flash evaporator 37 is connected to the gas inlet 333 through a bypass flow path, and the solenoid valve 38 is located in the bypass flow path. When the refrigerant circulation system executes the defrosting procedure, the solenoid valve 38 opens, thereby controlling the jet injection and increasing the evaporation rate to achieve high cooling capacity. This ensures that the user's heating experience is not affected during defrosting.

[0101] For example, the first throttling device 34 is an electronic expansion valve, and the second throttling device 39 is a capillary tube. This allows for both throttling requirements and refrigerant flow regulation, thereby ensuring the performance of the refrigerant circulation system.

[0102] For example, solenoid valve 38 is a one-way solenoid valve, which can prevent refrigerant backflow in the bypass path.

[0103] In some embodiments of this application, referring to FIG6, the spraying device 11 includes a spray head 111 and a water supply pipe 112. The water supply pipe 112 includes a metal pipe 1121, and the spray head 111 is connected to the end of the metal pipe 1121. The metal pipe 1121 is in heat exchange cooperation with the heating branch 36. Thus, by connecting the spray head 111 to the end of the metal pipe 1121, the spray head 111 can be easily and reliably fixed and limited. Moreover, since metal has relatively good thermal conductivity, setting the metal pipe 1121 to transfer heat with the heating branch 36 is beneficial to the rapid and efficient de-icing of the metal pipe 1121. Exemplarily, the water supply pipe 112 also includes a flexible hose 1122, which is connected to the end of the metal pipe 1121 away from the spray head 111.

[0104] In some embodiments of this application, referring to FIG6, the spraying device 11 further includes a heat-conducting metal 113. The metal tube 1121 and the heating branch 36 are thermally connected through the heat-conducting metal 113. The heat-conducting metal 113 has a first through-tube channel and a second through-tube channel arranged in parallel. The metal tube 1121 passes through the first through-tube channel, and the heating branch 36 passes through the second through-tube channel. Thus, the metal tube 1121 can achieve de-icing more quickly, improving de-icing efficiency.

[0105] For example, the first temperature detection device 21 detects the temperature of the metal tube 1121. This reduces the installation difficulty of the first temperature detection device 21 and improves its detection reliability, enabling timely detection of freezing risks and prompt de-icing. However, this application is not limited to this. For example, in other embodiments of this application, the first temperature detection device 21 may also be configured to detect the temperature of the spray head 111, etc.

[0106] Other configurations and operations of the window air conditioner 100 according to embodiments of this application are known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail here.

[0107] In summary, for apartments and other locations where drainage pipes cannot be installed, it is difficult to drain the condensate produced by window air conditioners. The embodiments of this application use a spray device 11 to atomize and spray water, eliminating the need for a drainage pipe. However, considering that the condensate recovery system located on the outdoor unit may freeze and become blocked when the window air conditioner is heating at extremely low temperatures, causing the condensate recovery system to malfunction and preventing the condensate from being sprayed out, the window air conditioner according to the embodiments of this application further optimizes and improves its structure and control to solve the problem of the condensate recovery system being blocked by ice on the outdoor unit when heating at extremely low temperatures, enabling the spray device 11 to work normally and drain and consume the condensate.

[0108] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "upper", "lower", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0109] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0110] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a communication connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0111] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0112] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0113] Although embodiments of this application have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of this application, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A control method for a window air conditioner, wherein, The window air conditioner includes: a condensate recovery and treatment system, a temperature detection system, and a refrigerant circulation system. The condensate recovery and treatment system includes a spray device located in the outdoor unit of the window air conditioner. The temperature detection system includes a first temperature detection device for detecting the temperature of the spray device. The control method includes: Determine whether to proceed with the water treatment process; Determine whether the temperature detected by the first temperature detection device is lower than a first preset value; When the temperature detected by the first temperature detection device is lower than the first preset value, the de-icing spray mode is activated. The de-icing spray mode includes controlling the refrigerant circulation system to perform a de-icing procedure on the condensate recovery and treatment system.

2. The control method for a window air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein, The refrigerant circulation system includes an outdoor heat exchanger, an indoor heat exchanger, a compressor, a first throttling device, a reversing valve, and a heating branch. The reversing valve includes a first valve port, a second valve port, a third valve port, and a fourth valve port. The first valve port is connected to the exhaust port of the compressor, and the second valve port is connected to the return port of the compressor. The indoor heat exchanger, the first throttling device, and the outdoor heat exchanger are connected between the third valve port and the fourth valve port along a direction from the third valve port to the fourth valve port. The heating branch is located between the indoor heat exchanger and the first throttling device and cooperates with the spray device for heat exchange. When the refrigerant circulation system executes the de-icing procedure, the reversing valve switches to connect the first valve port and the third valve port, and the second valve port and the fourth valve port, and the heating branch heats the spray device.

3. The control method for a window air conditioner according to claim 2, wherein, The condensate recovery and treatment system also includes an outdoor unit water recovery container for recovering condensate in the outdoor unit. The outdoor unit water recovery container constitutes one of the water sources for the spray device. The heating branch includes a first heating branch and a second heating branch arranged sequentially along the direction from the indoor heat exchanger to the first throttling device. The first heating branch exchanges heat with the spray device, and the second heating branch exchanges heat with the outdoor unit water recovery container. When the refrigerant circulation system executes the de-icing procedure, the first heating branch heats the spray device, and the second heating branch heats the outdoor unit water recovery container.

4. The control method for a window air conditioner according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The refrigerant circulation system includes a flash evaporator, a solenoid valve, and a second throttling device. The flash evaporator and the second throttling device are connected between the first throttling device and the outdoor heat exchanger along the direction from the first throttling device to the outdoor heat exchanger. The flash evaporator is connected to the compressor's gas inlet through a bypass flow path. The solenoid valve is located in the bypass flow path and opens when the refrigerant circulation system executes the de-icing procedure.

5. The control method for a window air conditioner according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein, The de-icing spray mode includes: when the refrigerant circulation system executes the de-icing program for a preset duration, controlling the condensate recovery and treatment system to execute a first spray program once; after executing the first spray program once, determining whether the de-icing exit condition is met; if the de-icing exit condition is not met, repeating the de-icing spray mode.

6. The control method for a window air conditioner according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein, The temperature detection system includes a second temperature detection device for detecting the outdoor temperature, and after determining that the water treatment process has begun, it further includes: Determine whether the temperature detected by the second temperature detection device is lower than the second preset value; When the temperature detected by the second temperature detection device is lower than the second preset value, the de-icing spray mode is activated.

7. The control method for a window air conditioner according to claim 6, wherein, The step of determining whether the temperature detected by the second temperature detection device is lower than the second preset value is performed before the step of determining whether the temperature detected by the first temperature detection device is lower than the first preset value. Furthermore, if the temperature detected by the second temperature detection device is not lower than the second preset value, then it is determined whether the temperature detected by the first temperature detection device is lower than the first preset value.

8. The control method for a window air conditioner according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein, When the temperature detected by the first temperature detection device is not lower than the first preset value, the spray drainage mode is entered; The spray drainage mode includes controlling the condensate recovery and treatment system to execute a second spray procedure.

9. The control method for a window air conditioner according to claim 8, wherein, The spray drainage mode continues until the drainage exit condition is met, at which point the spray drainage mode is exited.

10. The control method for a window air conditioner according to any one of claims 1-9, wherein, include: When the window air conditioner is turned on, it is determined whether the time since the last shutdown has reached the set time. When the set time elapsed since the last shutdown, the normal operation mode is skipped, and it is first determined whether the water treatment entry conditions are met. When the conditions for water treatment entry are met, the water treatment process is determined to proceed. If the conditions for water treatment are not met, the system will enter normal operation mode.

11. The control method for a window air conditioner according to claim 10, wherein, If the set time has not been reached since the last shutdown, the system will enter normal operation mode. After entering normal operation mode, determine whether the water treatment entry conditions are met.

12. A window air conditioner, wherein, The window air conditioner includes an outdoor unit located on the outdoor side and an indoor unit suitable for installation on the indoor side. A condensate recovery and treatment system includes a water recovery container and a spray device installed on the outdoor unit, wherein the water recovery container constitutes the water source for the spray device; The temperature detection system includes a first temperature detection device for detecting the temperature of the spray device, and a second temperature detection device for detecting the outdoor temperature. A refrigerant circulation system includes a compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger located in the outdoor unit, an indoor heat exchanger located in the indoor unit, a first throttling device, a reversing valve, and a heating branch. The reversing valve includes a first valve port, a second valve port, a third valve port, and a fourth valve port. The first valve port is connected to the exhaust port of the compressor, and the second valve port is connected to the return port of the compressor. The indoor heat exchanger, the first throttling device, and the outdoor heat exchanger are connected between the third valve port and the fourth valve port in a direction from the third valve port to the fourth valve port. The heating branch is located between the indoor heat exchanger and the first throttling device and cooperates with the spray device for heat exchange.

13. The window air conditioner according to claim 12, wherein, The water recovery containers include an outdoor unit water recovery container and an indoor unit water recovery container. The outdoor unit water recovery container is located below the outdoor heat exchanger, and the indoor unit water recovery container is located below the indoor heat exchanger. Both the outdoor unit water recovery container and the indoor unit water recovery container constitute the water source for the spray device.

14. The window air conditioner according to claim 13, wherein, The heating branch includes a first heating branch and a second heating branch arranged sequentially along the direction from the indoor heat exchanger to the first throttling device. The first heating branch exchanges heat with the spray device, and the second heating branch exchanges heat with the outdoor unit water recovery container.

15. The window air conditioner according to claim 13 or 14, wherein, The condensate recovery and treatment system includes: a first conveying path for conveying water from the indoor unit water recovery container to the spray device, and a second conveying path for conveying water from the outdoor unit water recovery container to the indoor unit water recovery container. A first water pump is provided on the first conveying path, a second water pump is provided on the second conveying path, and a booster water pump located upstream of the first water pump is provided on the second conveying path.

16. The window air conditioner according to any one of claims 12-15, wherein, The spraying device includes a spray head and a water supply pipe. The water supply pipe includes a metal pipe. The spray head is connected to the end of the metal pipe. The metal pipe is in heat exchange cooperation with the heating branch. The first temperature detection device detects the temperature of the metal pipe.

17. The window air conditioner according to any one of claims 12-16, wherein, The compressor also has a gas inlet. The refrigerant circulation system includes a flash evaporator, a solenoid valve, and a second throttling device. The flash evaporator and the second throttling device are connected between the first throttling device and the outdoor heat exchanger along the direction from the first throttling device to the outdoor heat exchanger. The flash evaporator is connected to the gas inlet through a bypass flow path, and the solenoid valve is located in the bypass flow path.

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